US supercar-maker aims to topple Veyron

Little-known American supercar maker SSC is aiming to put its name up in lights by setting a new production car maximum speed record, and unseating the 253mph Bugatti EB16.4 Veyron in the process. The company is planning to close down a 12-mile stretch of Nevada’s Highway 93 on March 21 for the first run at the Veyron’s record. SSC’s weapon of choice for the task is a specially prepared version of its Ultimate Aero supercar, prepared by MKM Racing. Powered by a twin-turbocharged 6.3-litre V8, it puts out a staggering 1183bhp along with 1094lb ft of torque. The low slung two-seater has already been tested at NASA’s wind tunnel in Langley, Virginia where it is claimed to have shown the potential for a top speed of 273mph. However, it remains to be seen whether it can achieve that figure on the road. Existing performance claims for the Ultimate Aero put its 0-60mph time at 2.78sec and 0-100mph time at just 11.66sec. Its standing quarter mile time is claimed to be 9.90secs, with a terminal speed of 144mph.For more information on the SSC Ultimate Aero, visit the Shelby Supercars website.